Peripheral Neuropathy - Glossary

Glossary

Neuropathy: A problem in any part of the nervous system except the brain and spinal cord. Neuropathies can be caused by infection, toxic substances, or disease.

Peripheral nervous system: The nerves that branch out from the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body

Peripheral neuropathy: Nerve damage, usually affecting the feet and legs causing pain, numbness, or a tingling feeling. Also called "somatic neuropathy" or "distal sensory polyneuropathy".

Polyneuritis: Inflammation of several peripheral nerves at the same time.

Multifocal motor neuropathy: Rare immune mediated condition characterized by muscle wastage.

Diabetes mellitus: A group of disorders in which there is a defect in the transfer of glucose (sugar) from the bloodstream into cells, leading to abnormally high levels of blood sugar (hyperglycemia).